Best Credit Card 2024 #

Pros ✓

• High rewards across multiple spending categories
• Ability to transfer points to travel partners at a 1:1 rate
• Comprehensive travel and shopping protections

Cons ✘

• Presence of an annual fee
• No introductory APR promotion
• Optimal travel earning rates exclusively through Chase bookings

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card stands out for its exceptional rewards program and flexibility in redemption, making it an attractive option for those willing to pay a modest annual fee for premium benefits.

Why we like it

This card offers a blend of attractive rewards rates and flexibility in redemption that’s hard to beat, especially with the annual hotel credit partially offsetting the annual fee.

What we don’t like

The primary drawback is the lack of an introductory APR offer and the fact that the highest travel earning rates are reserved for bookings made through Chase.

Who it’s best for

Ideal for those new to travel rewards cards or those seeking a card that offers high rewards rates across multiple spending categories without a prohibitive annual fee.

Pros ✓

• Annual fee lower than others in its category
• Annual travel credit and anniversary miles justify the annual fee
• Miles are easy to earn and use

Cons ✘

• Lack of domestic airline and upscale hotel travel partners
• Developing Capital One lounge network
• Limited hotel status benefits

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers a comprehensive package of travel transfer partners, premium benefits, and an annual booking credit, all at a cost that’s more accessible than its competitors.

Why we like it

The card’s annual fee is effectively offset by the $300 credit for Capital One Travel bookings and 10,000 bonus miles awarded on your first anniversary.

What we don’t like

Redemption rates for non-travel rewards are less favorable, offering less than 1 cent per point.

Who it’s best for

Ideal for travelers seeking top-tier benefits with a flat-rate rewards structure, especially those who spend at least $400 annually on travel.

Pros ✓

• $300 annual travel credit highly flexible
• Generous welcome bonus
• Points are worth 50% more when redeemed for travel through Chase
• Points can be transferred to various airline and hotel partners

Cons ✘

• High annual fee
• High variable APR on purchases

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® card combines top-tier travel protections, airport lounge access, and robust rewards into one package.

Why we like it

Its benefits are customer-friendly, offering a no-hassle approach without the need for deciphering fine print or undergoing complicated procedures.

What we don’t like

The card’s significant annual fee is a considerable factor to weigh against its benefits.

Who it’s best for

Best suited for travelers desiring flexible points, comprehensive travel protections, and who can leverage the card’s benefits to justify the high annual fee.

Pros ✓

• High earning potential on flights and hotels booked through American Express Travel
• Comprehensive access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide
• Numerous annual statement credits for travel, dining, and entertainment expenses

Cons ✘

• Very high annual fee
• Maximizing the card’s benefits requires attention to detail and proactive management

The Platinum Card® from American Express offers a vast array of travel and lifestyle benefits, making it a top choice for those seeking luxury and convenience.

Why we like it

The card includes an extensive selection of perks that span across travel, lifestyle, and online shopping, providing value that can offset the annual fee for active users.

What we don’t like

The card’s benefits are doled out in specific increments throughout the year, requiring cardholders to stay on top of various credits and perks to fully utilize them.

Who it’s best for

Ideal for individuals willing to navigate the card’s complexities to leverage a broad selection of benefits, particularly if they travel frequently and enjoy premium services.

Pros ✓

• Strong rewards rate on every purchase
• Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• No foreign transaction fees

Cons ✘

• $95 annual fee
• No introductory APR on purchases or transfers

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is an accessible option for those focused on travel rewards, combining a reasonable annual fee with flexible redemption options.

Why we like it

It offers a compelling welcome bonus and competitive ongoing rewards, making it a strong contender for travelers who value simplicity and efficiency in earning travel rewards.

What we don’t like

While the card is travel-centric, it lacks some of the additional travel benefits and protections offered by more premium travel cards.

Who it’s best for

Best suited for individuals who prefer Capital One’s straightforward rewards structure and are looking for solid redemption opportunities without a high annual fee.

Pros ✓

• All purchases rounded up to the nearest 10 points
• 10% points back on the first 100,000 points redeemed each year
• No annual fee

Cons ✘

• Foreign transaction fee applies
• High balance transfer fee after intro period
• $6,000 annual spending cap on 2x points category

The Citi Rewards+® Card stands out for its unique benefits, offering a blend of 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers, plus rewards on everyday spending.

Why we like it

This card is notable for its welcome bonus and rewards structure, especially the points rounding up feature for all purchases and the 10% points back on redemptions, making it attractive for frequent shoppers.

What we don’t like

While the card excels in rewards and introductory APR, the benefits beyond these areas, like travel perks, are limited.

Who it’s best for

Ideal for those looking for a no-annual-fee card that offers rewards on daily spending while also planning to take advantage of the introductory APR offer on purchases and balance transfers.

Pros ✓

• Generous introductory APR period for purchases and qualifying balance transfers
• No annual fee

Cons ✘

• No rewards program or welcome bonus
• Balance transfer fee: 5%, min: $5
• 3% foreign transaction fee

The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card is distinguished by its exceptionally long balance transfer period, making it an outstanding choice for those looking to manage or consolidate debt.

Why we like it

It’s rare to find a card that offers such a lengthy introductory APR period on both purchases and balance transfers, all without an annual fee.

What we don’t like

The card lacks a rewards program and signup bonuses, which might deter those looking for immediate value beyond debt management.

Who it’s best for

Ideal for individuals aiming to pay down their balance without interest over an extended period while avoiding an annual fee.

Pros ✓

• No annual fee
• Long intro APR period for both purchases and balance transfers
• Cell phone protection coverage as an added benefit

Cons ✘

• Balance transfer fee applies
• No rewards program or signup bonus
• Foreign transaction fee

The U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card stands out for its extensive introductory APR period, offering significant savings on interest for those looking to manage debt or finance new purchases.

Why we like it

It’s a top choice for anyone seeking a long break from interest charges on both new purchases and balance transfers, complemented by the absence of an annual fee.

What we don’t like

The absence of a rewards program and welcome offers might limit the card’s appeal to those not prioritizing interest savings.

Who it’s best for

Ideal for individuals prioritizing debt management or financing a large purchase who can take full advantage of the intro APR period while not expecting rewards or cash back.

Pros ✓

• No annual fee
• High cash-back rates in rotating categories and on travel purchased through Chase
• Introductory APR on purchases

Cons ✘

• Requires activation of rotating categories
• Cash back on rotating categories capped at $1,500 in purchases each quarter

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ offers a robust cash-back program, especially for those willing to keep track of and activate the rotating categories.

Why we like it

Its diverse earning rates across different categories make it a highly flexible card for earning rewards on everyday spending, complemented by the bonus of an introductory APR offer.

What we don’t like

The need to remember to activate the rotating categories could be a downside for those seeking a more set-it-and-forget-it type of rewards card.

Who it’s best for

Ideal for consumers looking for a no-annual-fee card that offers significant cash back on both fixed and rotating categories, alongside introductory APR benefits.

Pros ✓

• 5% cash back on Amazon and Whole Foods purchases
• Instant $100 Amazon Gift Card upon approval
• No foreign transaction fees
• Travel and shopping protections

Cons ✘

• Requires an Amazon Prime membership
• No 0% introductory APR offer
• Lower cash back for non-Amazon purchases

The Prime Visa Card is a must-have for frequent Amazon and Whole Foods shoppers, offering generous cash back rates on purchases made within the Amazon ecosystem.

Why we like it

Its rewards structure is highly beneficial for Amazon Prime members, effectively providing substantial savings on everyday purchases.

What we don’t like

The card’s benefits are tied to maintaining an Amazon Prime membership, and the rewards rates for non-Amazon purchases are less competitive.

Who it’s best for

Ideal for dedicated Amazon shoppers and those who already have or are considering an Amazon Prime membership, looking to maximize their return on spending.

Pros ✓

• High cash-back rates in key spending categories like U.S. supermarkets and gas stations
• Introductory $0 annual fee for the first year
• Valuable welcome offer

Cons ✘

• Annual fee after the first year
• Cash back at U.S. supermarkets is capped after $6,000 per year in purchases

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is unmatched for earning cash back on groceries and gas, making it a leading choice for families and frequent grocery shoppers.

Why we like it

Its exceptional cash-back rates in everyday spending categories can significantly offset the cost of the annual fee, especially with the added bonuses for new cardholders.

What we don’t like

The benefits come with a cap on earnings at U.S. supermarkets, and the annual fee kicks in after the first year, which could be a downside for some users.

Who it’s best for

Best suited for those who spend a lot on groceries, gas, and transit, and who can make the most of the card’s high reward rates in these categories.

Pros ✓

• Flexible travel redemption options
• No foreign transaction fees
• Annual fee is competitive for the rewards and benefits offered

Cons ✘

• Annual fee with no first-year waiver
• No introductory APR offer
• Limited direct travel benefits

The Citi Premier® Card excels in offering high earning rates on travel and everyday spending categories, making it a solid choice for those looking to maximize their points.

Why we like it

The broad categories for earning triple points ensure that cardholders can accumulate rewards quickly, especially with common expenses like gas and groceries.

What we don’t like

While the card offers a wealth of opportunities for earning points, it lacks some of the travel perks that come standard with other travel-focused credit cards.

Who it’s best for

Ideal for individuals who spend across a variety of categories and are looking for a card that offers generous rewards on both travel and everyday purchases.

Pros ✓

• High rewards rate on dining and supermarket purchases
• Valuable welcome offer
• Points transfer to numerous travel partners

Cons ✘

• $250 annual fee
• High reward rates primarily benefit dining and supermarket spending

The American Express® Gold Card is a powerhouse for food enthusiasts, offering exceptional rewards on dining and grocery purchases.

Why we like it

This card turns every meal into an opportunity for reward, whether you’re dining out or cooking at home, making it a staple for food lovers.

What we don’t like

The annual fee is steep, but for those who spend heavily in the card’s bonus categories, it can offer significant value.

Who it’s best for

Ideal for individuals who frequently dine out or spend a considerable amount at U.S. supermarkets and want to earn travel rewards for their spending.

Pros ✓

• Excellent rewards earning rate on groceries, dining, and Air Canada purchases
• No foreign transaction fees
• Valuable travel benefits for Air Canada flyers

Cons ✘

• $95 annual fee
• Primarily benefits frequent Air Canada travelers

The Aeroplan® Credit Card is ideal for travelers who frequently fly with Air Canada, offering an array of benefits that enhance the travel experience.

Why we like it

This card offers robust earning opportunities in categories beyond just airline purchases, including everyday spending areas like groceries and dining.

What we don’t like

Its benefits are most valuable to those who frequently travel with Air Canada, which might limit its appeal to a broader audience.

Who it’s best for

Best suited for Air Canada loyalists and those who spend regularly on groceries and dining, looking to earn points towards future travel.

Pros ✓

• $125 annual United purchase credit
• Two free checked bags for cardholder and one companion on the same reservation
• Up to 3,000 Premier qualifying points (PQPs) can be earned through card spending

Cons ✘

• High annual fee
• Most beneficial for frequent United flyers

The United Quest℠ Card offers a generous rewards structure and benefits package that can significantly enhance the travel experience for United Airlines loyalists.

Why we like it

This card is loaded with perks that justify its annual fee, including annual credits, free checked bags, and the ability to earn PQPs towards elite status.

What we don’t like

Given its focused benefits and higher annual fee, it’s most suitable for those deeply committed to flying United.

Who it’s best for

Ideal for regular United flyers who can fully take advantage of the card’s travel credits, baggage benefits, and PQP earning potential to offset the annual fee.

Pros ✓

• Generous rewards on airline and hotel spending
• Large welcome offer
• No foreign transaction fees

Cons ✘

• $95 annual fee
• Best rewards rates are limited to airline and direct hotel bookings
• No complimentary lounge access or free checked bags

The British Airways Visa Signature® Card is particularly rewarding for those loyal to British Airways and its partners, offering a way to earn Avios rapidly.

Why we like it

The card’s generous earning rates on travel and hotel purchases, alongside a strong welcome offer, make it a solid choice for frequent travelers.

What we don’t like

Beyond travel and hotel bookings, the rewards rate drops to 1 Avios per dollar, and the card lacks some travel perks common to other airline cards.

Who it’s best for

Ideal for avid travelers who frequently fly with British Airways or its partners and prioritize earning Avios over broader travel benefits.

Pros ✓

• Annual free night award after each account anniversary
• Fourth night free on reward stays
• Automatic Platinum Elite status as long as you remain a Premier cardmember
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit

Cons ✘

• $99 annual fee
• Points are most valuable when redeemed for IHG hotel stays, limiting flexibility

The IHG® Rewards Premier Credit Card offers exceptional value for frequent guests of IHG hotels, combining high point earnings with valuable perks.

Why we like it

This card’s benefits, such as the annual free night and automatic elite status, can significantly enhance the IHG stay experience, easily offsetting the annual fee.

What we don’t like

The card’s appeal is somewhat niche, catering primarily to those who frequently stay at IHG properties.

Who it’s best for

Ideal for IHG enthusiasts who can take full advantage of the card’s benefits, including the annual free night, elite status, and reward stay perks.

Pros ✓

• Annual free night certificate on cardmember anniversary
• Automatic World of Hyatt Discoverist status
• Bonus points on spending extend beyond Hyatt stays

Cons ✘

• $95 annual fee
• Limited to Hyatt properties for maximum reward value

The World of Hyatt Credit Card is a prime choice for Hyatt enthusiasts, offering a wealth of benefits that can greatly enhance stays at luxury properties.

Why we like it

This card offers a compelling mix of rewards on everyday spending and Hyatt stays, making it easy to accumulate points for free nights.

What we don’t like

The rewards and benefits are most valuable for those loyal to Hyatt, which might not appeal to travelers who prefer more flexibility in their hotel choices.

Who it’s best for

Ideal for frequent Hyatt guests looking to maximize their stay experiences and earn points towards future stays at Hyatt hotels and resorts.

Pros ✓

• Cash back rewards on rotating categories
• Cashback Match at the end of the first year
• No annual fee
• Good for students building credit

Cons ✘

• Requires activation of rotating categories
• 5% cash back is limited to quarterly maximum

The Discover it® Student Cash Back card is an excellent option for students looking to earn rewards on their spending while building credit.

Why we like it

It offers competitive cash back rewards in rotating categories, which can include common student expenses, paired with Discover’s first-year Cashback Match.

What we don’t like

The need to activate categories each quarter to earn the 5% cash back and the limit on maximum quarterly earnings may require some management.

Who it’s best for

Perfect for students who are diligent about activating bonus categories and want to maximize their rewards on rotating spending areas.